Preparing for the Future 

Studies show that more than 60% of U.S. adults do not have a will in place to settle their estate. There is often a mistaken belief that only those with significant assets need to be concerned about having a comprehensive estate plan in place.  However, we believe that by executing a will and other ancillary estate-planning documents, you are easing the concerns and responsibilities of your loved ones in preparation for anything life may throw at you.

At The Law Office of Kevin H. Berry, P.C., we help residents of South Texas create simple estate plans to protect their assets and their loved ones. We have the experience and knowledge to assist individuals with more complex assets create estate plans that may include revocable or irrevocable trusts if it is what best fits their portfolio..

We also pride ourselves on our ability to help individuals navigate the probate process.  We believe that courts and statutory procedures are the last things an individual wants to have to deal with in such a fragile and vulnerable time in their lives.

Why Every Adult Should Have a Will

A will is the foundation of any estate plan. It provides instructions on how you want your assets to be divided upon your death. A person who dies without a will is said to have “died intestate.” Under Texas law, the assets of someone who dies intestate are distributed according to guidelines in the Texas Probate Code, which may or may not align with your wishes. You work hard to accumulate assets throughout your life; why would you allow the state to dictate how those assets are divided when you die?

A will also contains important directions beyond how to distribute your assets. You can:

• Name a guardian for your minor children
• Designate someone you trust to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated and unable to do so
• Provide instructions about what life-saving measures you want or do not want to be taken in the event you become incapacitated or you have a terminal illness
• Designate someone you trust to make health care decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated

With clear and specific instructions that we include in all wills, your loved ones will know they are following your wishes, no matter how difficult the decisions are that must be made.

Guiding Executors Through Probate

We also assist executors as they steer an estate through probate. Complex estates can present unique situations in probate, which is why it is wise to enlist the guidance of an experienced estate planning attorney like Kevin H. Berry. Early involvement in the probate process can prevent costly litigation.

Through all our estate planning services, we provide the personalized attention on which our firm has staked its reputation. A will should reflect your life, so it is important to work with a lawyer who does not follow cookie-cutter formulas, but rather one that takes the time to learn about your objectives and explains all the options that are available to you. 

Schedule a Consultation

We welcome the opportunity to discuss your estate planning needs during an initial consultation. Call 210-802-2424 or use our online contact form to schedule a meeting.